Kwoon Renovations

This past week we shut down the Kwoon for renovations.  This happens every year at the same time and this is the second year that I have taken part in them.  What is amazing is that when we start this project it looks so daunting (and it is!) but somehow we find a way to make it all come together in the end.  A couple of weeks before the reno’s are slated to start there is always is a call for volunteers.  I have found that we could always use more people to help out than actually do show up.  There are over 300 students at SRKF ad yet only a very small fraction of those students show up?  We seem to have the same people come and help year after year.  This is such a great opportunity to out a little of yourself into the kwoon and take some pride and ownership in it.  We may not own this Kwoon but it our training hall and in such should take some ownership in it! 

What do I get out of it?  I get a sense of ownership and a strong sense of pride every time I walk into the kwoon.  I look at that boot rack and the wall behind it.  It reminds me of the night that we had to scrub like crazy to get that fast drying grout off the wall.  It reminds me of the Saturday that Sihing Gamble and I drilled the wrong holes for the boot rack supports yet we got it up and it looks great.  I am reminded of the great camaraderie that was shared by all that took part and put some sweat into the renos.  Those that were there I feel share a stronger bond with each other than those who did not come and help out.

I must acknowledge Sihing Lindstrom on organizing the reno’s and by far putting in the most work of anyone.  Also Sihing Wiebe spent a large amount of time there as well.  Without the leadership and hard work shown by these two Sihings, the beautiful Kwoon that we training in would not look as good as it does right now.

I urge all of my fellow students to not let these kinds of opportunities pass you by.  Come out and lend a hand and in doing so you will find a greater sense of accomplishment and purpose.

Ian Repay

Student of Silent River Kung Fu

Student member of UBBT 8

Silent River Kung Fu,